Radio frequency identification (RFID) tag location verification using short range communication

ABSTRACT

An EAS system first transmits, over a time, a radio frequency identification (RFID) interrogation signal into an RFID interrogation zone of an EAS system. The system then first receives at least one RFID response signal from a first RFID tag of the system responding to the interrogation signal. The system second transmits, over a second time overlapping at least in part with the first time, a non-RFID RF signal into a second zone. The second zone and the RFID interrogation zone overlap to form a zone of interest. The system second receives, from the first RFID tag, an indication that the first RFID tag received the second transmission. The system determines, based on receiving both the RFID response signal from a first RFID tag and the indication that the first RFID tag received the second transmission, that the first RFID tag is in the zone of interest.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/894,682, entitled “Positional Validation of RFID Tags Detected inElectronic Article Surveillance Systems using Bluetooth,” filed Aug. 30,2019, which is expressly incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to Electronic ArticleSurveillance (EAS). Examples related to EAS using a Radio FrequencyIdentification (RFID) tag with tag location verified by short rangecommunication including personal area network (PAN) short rangecommunication.

Introduction

EAS systems are commonly used in retail stores and other settings toprevent the unauthorized removal of goods from a protected area.Typically, a detection system is configured at an exit from theprotected area, which comprises one or more transmitters and antennas(“pedestals”) capable of generating an electromagnetic field across theexit, known as the “interrogation zone.” Articles to be protected aretagged with an EAS marker that, when active, generates a response signalwhen passed through this interrogation zone. An antenna and receiver inthe same or another “pedestal” detects this response signal andgenerates an alarm.

A personal area network (PAN) is a computer network for interconnectingelectronic devices centered on an individual person's workspace. A PANprovides data transmission among devices such as computers, smartphones,tablets, and personal digital assistants. PANs can be used forcommunication among the personal devices themselves, or for connectingto a higher level network and the Internet where one master device takesup the role as gateway. A PAN may be wireless or carried over wiredinterfaces such as USB. A wireless personal area network (WPAN) is a PANcarried over a low-powered, short-distance wireless network technologysuch as IrDA, Wireless USB, Bluetooth including (Bluetooth Low Energy(LE)), or ZigBee. The reach of a WPAN varies from a few centimeters to afew meters.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects inorder to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary isnot an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects and is intended toneither identify key or critical elements of all aspects nor delineatethe scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is to present someconcepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to themore detailed description that is presented later.

Examples of the technology disclosed herein include methods, systems,and tags of electronic article surveillance (EAS). In some methods, anEAS system first transmits, over first window of time, a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) interrogation signal into an RFID interrogationzone of an EAS system. The EAS system then first receives at least oneRFID response signal from a first RFID tag of the EAS system respondingto the interrogation signal. The EAS system second transmits, over asecond window of time overlapping at least in part with the first windowof time, a non-RFID RF signal into a second zone. The second zone andthe RFID interrogation zone overlap to form a zone of interest. The EASsystem second receives, from the first RFID tag, an indication that thefirst RFID tag received the second transmission. The EAS systemdetermines, based on receiving both the at least one RFID responsesignal from a first RFID tag of the EAS system responding to theinterrogation signal and the indication that the first RFID tag receivedthe second transmission, that the first RFID tag is in the zone ofinterest.

In some examples, the second transmitting is in response to the firstreceiving. In such examples, first receiving further includesdetermining that the first RFID tag is not authorized to be in the RFIDinterrogation zone. In those examples, the second transmitting occursonly in response to determining that the first RFID tag is notauthorized to be in the RFID interrogation zone. In some such examples,the EAS system alarms in response to determining that the first RFID tagis in the zone of interest.

In some examples, the non-RFID RF signal is a personal area network(PAN) signal. In some such examples, the PAN is a Bluetooth PAN. In somesuch examples, determining is further based on a received signalstrength indicator (RSSI) of the first tag.

In some examples, the indication that the first RFID tag received thesecond transmission comprises one of an information element in the RFIDresponse signal, and a received non-RFID response signal from the firsttag in response to the non-RFID RF signal.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the one or moreaspects comprise the features hereinafter fully described andparticularly pointed out in the claims. The following description andthe annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative featuresof the one or more aspects. These features are indicative, however, ofbut a few of the various ways in which the principles of various aspectsmay be employed, and this description is intended to include all suchaspects and their equivalents

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an illustrative architecture for a system.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an illustrative architecture for a tag.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an illustrative architecture for a tagreader.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an illustrative architecture for a server.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method of electronic article surveillance,in accordance with examples of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an architecture, in accordance withexamples of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart of a method of electronic article surveillance,in accordance with examples of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a computing device including components forperforming the function of examples of the technology disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments asgenerally described herein and illustrated in the appended figures couldbe arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations.Thus, the following more detailed description of various embodiments, asrepresented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of thepresent disclosure, but is merely representative of various embodiments.While the various aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings,the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specificallyindicated.

The present solution may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its spirit or essential characteristics. The describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrativeand not restrictive. The scope of the present solution therefore isindicated by the appended claims rather than by this detaileddescription. All changes that come within the meaning and range ofequivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, orsimilar language does not imply that all of the features and advantagesthat may be realized with the present solution should be or are in anysingle embodiment of the present solution. Rather, language referring tothe features and advantages is understood to mean that a specificfeature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with anembodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the presentsolution. Thus, discussions of the features and advantages, and similarlanguage, throughout the specification may, but do not necessarily,refer to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics ofthe present solution may be combined in any suitable manner in one ormore embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, inlight of the description herein, that the present solution can bepracticed without one or more of the specific features or advantages ofa particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features andadvantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not bepresent in all embodiments of the present solution.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “anembodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the indicatedembodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the presentsolution. Thus, the phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment,” andsimilar language throughout this specification may, but do notnecessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

As used in this document, the singular form “a,” “an,” and “the” includeplural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unlessdefined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein havethe same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in theart. As used in this document, the term “comprising” means “including,but not limited to.”

In the retail industry, it is common to “source tag” merchandise withRFID tags, either at the time of packaging/manufacture, or at some otherpoint in the in the supply chain. At the same time, electronic articlesurveillance (EAS) technology and devices have proven critical to thereduction of theft and so called “shrinkage.” Since many items arrive atthe retailer with RFID tags, it is desirable that RFID tag be used alsoto provide EAS functionality in addition to their intended function ofproviding capabilities such as inventory control, shelf reading,non-line of sight reading, etc.

Currently, using RFID as an EAS exit solution is limited by stray orreflected alarms when transmission powers are increased. People walkingthrough the EAS portal may trigger alarms even if they are not removingmerchandise from the premises without authorization. Alarms can becaused by stationary RFID tags located some distance from the exit.Further, such an approach limits the ability for the retailer to placemerchandise too close to the exit system due to false alarms. The largeread ranges of the RFID technology coupled with RF reflections makes itvery difficult to control the RFID system's detection area at the exit.

Bluetooth LE is wireless personal area network (WPAN) technology withuse cases in the healthcare, fitness, beacons, security, and homeentertainment industries. Bluetooth LE is independent of BluetoothBR/EDR, but BR/EDR and LE can coexist. Compared to classic Bluetooth,Bluetooth LE is intended to provide reduced power consumption.Advantages include low power requirements, operating for “months oryears” on a button cell, small size and low cost, and compatibility witha large installed base of mobile phones, tablets and computers. CertainBluetooth LE capabilities allow physical proximity to a Bluetooth LEtransmitter (e.g., a beacon) to be estimated using the radio receiver'sReceived Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) value.

Examples of the technology disclosed herein can utilize a short rangeradio frequency (RF) signal, e.g., a Bluetooth LE beacon, at the exitpoint to validate the position of the RFID tag when the RFID tag causesan EAS event at the portal. Such solutions can logically AND the RFIDsignal response with event data indicators derived from short range (orrangeable) signals. This advantageously reduces false alarms, and at thesame time can allow for reduced RFID transmission power.

These and other features of the present disclosure are discussed indetail below with regard to FIGS. 1-8 .

Referring now to FIG. 1 , there is provided a schematic illustration ofan illustrative system 100 that is useful for understanding the presentsolution. The present solution is described herein in relation to aretail store environment. The present solution is not limited in thisregard, and can be used in other environments. For example, the presentsolution can be used in distribution centers, factories and othercommercial environments. Notably, the present solution can be employedin any environment in which objects and/or items need to be locatedand/or tracked.

The system 100 is generally configured to allow (a) improved inventorycounts and surveillance of objects and/or items located within afacility, and (b) improved customer experiences. As shown in FIG. 1 ,system 100 comprises a Retail Store Facility (“RSF”) 128 in whichdisplay equipment 102 ₁, . . . , 102 _(M) is disposed. The displayequipment is provided for displaying objects (or items) 110 ₁-110 _(N),116 ₁-116 _(X) to customers of the retail store. The display equipmentcan include, but is not limited to, shelves, article display cabinets,promotional displays, fixtures, and/or equipment se-curing areas of theRSF 128. The RSF can also include emergency equipment (not shown),checkout counters, video cameras, people counters, and conventional EASsystems are well known in the art, and therefore will not be describedherein.

At least one tag reader 120 is provided to assist in counting andtracking locations the objects 110 ₁-110 _(N), 116 ₁-116 _(X) within theRSF 128. The tag reader 120 comprises an RFID reader configured to readRFID tags. RFID readers are well known in the art, and therefore will bedescribed at a sufficient level of detail below for understanding of theclaimed invention.

RFID tags 112 ₁-112 _(N), 118 ₁-118 _(X) are respectively attached orcoupled to the objects 110 ₁-110 _(N), 116 ₁-116 _(X). This coupling isachieved via an adhesive (e.g., glue, tape, or sticker), a mechanicalcoupler (e.g., straps, clamps, snaps, etc.), a weld, chemical bond, orother means. The RFID tags can alternatively or additionally comprisedual-technology tags that have both EAS and RFID capabilities asdescribed herein.

Notably, the tag reader 120 is strategically placed at a known locationwithin the RSF 128, for example, at an exit/entrance. By correlating thetag reader's RFID tag reads and the tag reader's known location withinthe RSF 128, it is possible to determine the general location of objects110 ₁, . . . , 110 _(N), 116 ₁, . . . , 116 _(X) within the RSF 128. Thetag reader's known coverage area also facilitates object locationdeterminations. Accordingly, RFID tag read information and tag readerlocation information is stored in a datastore 126. This information canbe stored in the datastore 126 using a server 124 and network 144 (e.g.,an Intranet and/or Internet).

System 100 also comprises a Mobile Communication Device (“MCD”) 130. MCD130 includes, but is not limited to, a cell phone, a smart phone, atable computer, a personal digital assistant, and/or a wearable device(e.g., a smart watch). Each of the listed devices is well known in theart, and therefore will not be described herein. In accordance with someexamples, the MCD 130 has a software application installed thereon thatis operative to: facilitate the provision of various information 134-142to the individual 152; facilitate a purchase transaction; and/orfacilitate the detachment of the RFID tags 112 ₁-112 _(N), 118 ₁-118_(X) from the objects 110 ₁, . . . , 110 _(N), 116 ₁, . . . , 116 _(X);and/or facilitate the detachment of an anchored chain or cable from theobjects 110 ₁, . . . , 110 _(N), 116 ₁, . . . , 116 _(X).

The MCD 130 is generally configured to provide a visual and/or auditoryoutput of item level information 134, accessory information 136, relatedproduct information 138, discount information 140 and/or customerrelated information 142. The item level information includes, but is notlimited to, an item description, item nutritional information, apromotional message, an item regular price, an item sale price, acurrency symbol, and/or a source of the item.

An accessory includes, but is not limited to, a useful auxiliary itemthat can be attached to or removed from an item (e.g., a drill bit orbattery of a drill). The accessory information includes, but is notlimited to, an accessory description, accessory nutritional information,a promotional message, an accessory regular price, an accessory saleprice, a currency symbol, a source of the accessory, and/or an accessorylocation in the facility.

A related product includes, but is not limited to, a product that can beused in conjunction with or as an alternative to another product (e.g.,diaper rash cream which can be used when changing a diaper, or a firstdiaper can be used as an alternative to another diaper). The relatedproduct information includes, but is not limited to, a related productdescription, related product nutritional information, a promotionalmessage, a related product regular price, a related product sale price,a currency symbol, a source of the related product, and/or a relatedproduct location in the facility.

The discount information can include, but is not limited to, a discountprice for a product based on a loyalty level or other criteria. Thecustomer related information includes, but is not limited to, customeraccount numbers, customer identifiers, usernames, passwords, paymentinformation, loyalty levels, historical purchase information, and/oractivity trends.

The item level information, accessory information, related productinformation and/or discount in-formation can be output in a formatselected from a plurality of formats based on a geographic location ofthe item, a location of the MCD, a date, and/or an item pricing status(i.e., whether the item is on sale). In a display context, the format isdefined by a font parameter, a color parameter, a brightness parameter,and/or a display blinking parameter. In an auditory context, the formatis defined by a volume parameter, a voice tone parameter, and/or amale/female voice selected parameter.

The MCD 130 can also be configured to read barcodes and/or RFID tags.Information obtained from the barcode and/or RFID tag reads may becommunicated from the MCD 130 to the server 124 via network 144.Similarly, the stored information 134-142 is provided from the server124 to the MCD 130 via network 144. The network 144 includes an Intranetand/or the Internet.

Server 124 can be local to the facility 128 as shown in FIG. 1 or remotefrom the facility 128. Server 124 will be described in more detail belowin relation to FIG. 4 . Still, it should be understood that server 124is configured to: write data to and read data from datastore 126, RFIDtags 112 ₁-112 _(N), 118 ₁-118 _(X), and/or MCD 130; perform languageand currency conversion operations using item level information and/oraccessory information obtained from the datastore, RFID tags, and/orMCD; perform data analytics based on inventory information, tag readinformation, MCD tacking information, and/or information 134-142;perform image processing using images captured by camera(s) 148; and/ordetermine locations of RFID tags and/or MCDs in the RSF 128 usingbeacon(s) 146, tag reader 120 or other devices having known locationsand/or antenna patterns.

In some examples, one or more beacons 146 transmitting an RF signal(second RF signal that is non-RFID) other than the RFID interrogationsignal are placed to cover a zone of interest also covered by a tagreader 120 placed to cover an RFID interrogation zone, e.g., at a portalof the retail facility 128. The system 100 can detect and derive anynumber of relevant indicators based on second RF signal. The tag 112/118response to the second RF signal is analyzed and compared to datacollected by the RFID signal response that occurred concurrently withthe tag's passage through the portal.

Examples of the technology disclosed herein include methods, systems,and tags of electronic article surveillance (EAS). In some methods, anEAS system first transmits, over first window of time, a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) interrogation signal into an RFID interrogationzone of an EAS system. The EAS system then first receives at least oneRFID response signal from a first RFID tag of the EAS system respondingto the interrogation signal. The EAS system second transmits, over asecond window of time overlapping at least in part with the first windowof time, a non-RFID RF signal into a second zone. The second zone andthe RFID interrogation zone overlap to form a zone of interest. The EASsystem second receives, from the first RFID tag, an indication that thefirst RFID tag received the second transmission. The EAS systemdetermines, based on receiving both the at least one RFID responsesignal from a first RFID tag of the EAS system responding to theinterrogation signal and the indication that the first RFID tag receivedthe second transmission, that the first RFID tag is in the zone ofinterest.

In some examples, the second transmitting is in response to the firstreceiving. In such examples, first receiving further includesdetermining that the first RFID tag is not authorized to be in the RFIDinterrogation zone. In those examples, the second transmitting occursonly in response to determining that the first RFID tag is notauthorized to be in the RFID interrogation zone. In some such examples,the EAS system alarms in response to determining that the first RFID tagis in the zone of interest.

In some examples, the non-RFID RF signal is a personal area network(PAN) signal. In some such examples, the PAN is a Bluetooth PAN. In somesuch examples, determining is further based on a received signalstrength indicator (RSSI) of the first tag.

In some examples, the indication that the first RFID tag received thesecond transmission comprises one of an information element in the RFIDresponse signal, and a received non-RFID response signal from the firsttag in response to the non-RFID RF signal.

The server 124 facilitates updates to the information 134-142 outputfrom the MCD 130. Such information updating can be performedperiodically, in response to instructions received from an associate(e.g., a retail store employee 132), in response to a detected change inthe item level, accessory and/or related product information, inresponse to a detection that an individual is in proximity to an RFIDtag, and/or in response to any motion or movement of the RFID tag. Forexample, if a certain product is placed on sale, then the sale price forthat product is transmitted to MCD 130 via network 144 and/or RFID tag.The sale price is then output from the MCD 130. The present solution isnot limited to the particulars of this example.

Although a single MCD 130 and/or a single server 124 is (are) shown inFIG. 1 , the present solution is not limited in this regard. It iscontemplated that more than one computing device can be implemented. Inaddition, the present solution is not limited to the illustrative systemarchitecture de-scribed in relation to FIG. 1 .

During operation of system 100, the content displayed on the displayscreen of the MCD 130 is dynamically controlled based upon various tagor item related information and/or customer related information (e.g.,mobile device identifier, mobile device location in RSF 128, and/orcustomer loyalty level). Tag or item level information includes, but isnot limited to, first information indicating that an RFID tag is inmotion or that an object is being handled by an individual 152, secondinformation indicating a current location of the RFID tag and/or the MCD130, third information indicating an accessory or related product of theobject to which the moving RFID tag is coupled, and/or fourthinformation indicating the relative locations of the accessory and themoving RFID tag and/or the relative locations of the related product andthe moving RFID tag. The first, second and fourth information can bederived based on sensor data generated by sensors local to the RFID tag.Accordingly, the RFID tags 112 ₁-112 _(N), 118 ₁-118 _(X) include one ormore sensors to detect their current locations, detect any individual inproximity thereto, and/or detect any motion or movement thereof. Thesensors include, but are not limited to, an Inertial Measurement Unit(“IMU”), a vibration sensor, a light sensor, an accelerometer, agyroscope, a proximity sensor, a microphone, and/or a beaconcommunication device. The third information can be stored local to theRFID tag(s) or in a remote datastore 126 as information 136, 138.

In some scenarios, the MCD 130 facilitates the server's 124 (a)detection of when the individual 152 enters the RSF 128, (b) tracking ofthe individual's movement through the RSF, (c) detection of when theindividual is in proximity to an object to which an RFID tag is coupled,(d) determination that an RFID tag is being handled or moved by theindividual based on a time stamped pattern of MCD movement and atimestamped pattern of RFID tag movement, and/or (e) determination of anassociation of moving RFID tags and the individual.

When a detection is made that an RFID tag is being moved, the server 124can, in some scenarios, obtain customer related information (such as aloyalty level) 142 associated with the individual 152. This informationcan be obtained from the individual's MCD 130 and/or the datastore 126.The customer related information 142 is then used to retrieve discountinformation 140 for the object to which the RFID tag is coupled. Theretrieved discount information is then communicated from the server 124to the individual's MCD 130. The individual's MCD 130 can output thediscount information in a visual format and/or an auditory format. Otherinformation may also be communicated from the server 124 to theindividual's MCD 130. The other information includes, but is not limitedto, item level information, accessory information, and/or relatedproduct information.

In those or other scenarios, a sensor embedded in the RFID tag detectswhen an individual is handling the object to which the RFID tag iscoupled. When such a detection is made, the RFID tag retrieves theobject's unique identifier from its local memory, and wirelesslycommunicates the same to the tag reader 120. The tag reader 120 thenpasses the information to the server 124. The server 124 uses theobject's unique identifier and the item/accessory relationshipin-formation (e.g., table) 136 to determine if there are any accessoriesassociated therewith. If no accessories exist for the object, the server124 uses the item level information 134 to determine one or morecharacteristics of the object. For example, the object includes aproduct of a specific brand. The server 124 then uses the item/relatedproduct information (e.g., table) 138 to identify: other products of thesame type with the same characteristics; and/or other products that aretypically used in conjunction with the object. Related productinformation for the identified related products is then retrieved andprovided to the MCD 130. The MCD 130 can output the related productinformation in a visual format and/or an auditory format. The individual152 can perform user-software interactions with the MCD 130 to obtainfurther information obtain the related product of interest. The presentsolution is not limited to the particulars of this scenario.

Referring now to FIG. 2 , there is an illustration of an illustrativearchitecture for a tag 200. RFID tags 112 ₁, . . . , 112 _(N), 118 ₁, .. . , 118 _(X) are the same as or similar to tag 200. As such, thediscussion of tag 200 is sufficient for understanding the RFID tags 112₁, . . . , 112 _(N), 118 ₁, . . . , 118 _(X) of FIG. 1 . Tag 200 isgenerally configured to perform operations to (a) minimize power usageso as to extend a power source's life (e.g., a battery or a capacitor),(b) minimize collisions with other tags so that the tag of interest canbe seen at given times, (c) optimize useful information within aninventory system (e.g., communicate useful change information to a tagreader), and/or (d) optimize local feature functions.

The tag 200 can include more or less components than that shown in FIG.2 . However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose anillustrative embodiment implementing the present solution. Some or allof the components of the tag 200 can be implemented in hardware,software and/or a combination of hardware and software. The hardwareincludes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. Theelectronic circuit(s) may comprise passive components (e.g., capacitorsand resistors) and active components (e.g., processors) arranged and/orprogrammed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

The hardware architecture of FIG. 2 represents a representative tag 200configured to facilitate improved inventory management/surveillance andcustomer experience. In this regard, the tag 200 is configured forallowing data to be exchanged with an external device (e.g., tag reader120 of FIG. 1 , a beacon 146 of FIG. 1 , a Mobile Communication Device(“MCD”) 130 of FIG. 1 , and/or server 124 of FIG. 1 ) via wirelesscommunication technology. The wireless communication technology caninclude, but is not limited to, a Radio Frequency Identification(“RFID”) technology, a Near Field Communication (“NFC”) technology,and/or a Short Range Communication (“SRC”) technology. For example, oneor more of the following wireless communication technologies (is) areemployed: Radio Frequency (“RF”) communication technology; Bluetoothtechnology (including Bluetooth Low Energy (LE)); WiFi technology;beacon technology; and/or LiFi technology. Each of the listed wirelesscommunication technologies is well known in the art, and therefore willnot be described in detail herein. Any known or to be known wirelesscommunication technology or other wireless communication technology canbe used herein without limitation.

The components 206-214 shown in FIG. 2 may be collectively referred toherein as a communication enabled device 204, and include a memory 208and a clock/timer 214. Memory 208 may be a volatile memory and/or anon-volatile memory. For example, the memory 208 can include, but is notlimited to, Random Access Memory (“RAM”), Dynamic RAM (“DRAM”), StaticRAM (“SRAM”), Read Only Memory (“ROM”), and flash memory. The memory 208may also comprise unsecure memory and/or secure memory.

In some scenarios, the communication enabled device 204 comprises aSoftware Defined Radio (“SDR”). SDRs are well known in the art, andtherefore will not be described in detail herein. However, it should benoted that the SDR can be programmatically assigned any communicationprotocol that is chosen by a user (e.g., RFID, WiFi, LiFi, Bluetooth,BLE, Nest, ZWave, Zigbee, etc.). The communication protocols are part ofthe device's firmware and reside in memory 208. Notably, thecommunication protocols can be downloaded to the device at any giventime. The initial/default role (being an RFID, WiFi, LiFi, etc. tag) canbe assigned at the deployment thereof. If the user desires to useanother protocol later, the user can remotely change the communicationprotocol of the deployed tag 200. The update of the firmware, in case ofissues, can also be performed remotely.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the communication enabled device 204 comprises atleast one antenna 202, 216 for allowing data to be exchanged with theexternal device via a wireless communication technology (e.g., an RFIDtechnology, an NFC technology, a SRC technology, and/or a beacontechnology). The antenna 202, 216 is configured to receive signals fromthe external de-vice and/or transmit signals generated by thecommunication enabled device 204. The antenna 202, 216 can comprise anear-field or far-field antenna. The antennas include, but are notlimited to, a chip antenna or a loop antenna.

The communication enabled device 204 also comprises a communicationdevice (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) 206. Communication devices(e.g., transceivers or transmitters) are well known in the art, andtherefore will not be described herein. However, it should be understoodthat the communication device 206 generates and transmits signals (e.g.,RF carrier signals) to external devices, as well as receives signals(e.g., RF signals) transmitted from external devices. In this way, thecommunication enabled device 204 facilitates the registration,identification, location and/or tracking of an item (e.g., object 110 or112 of FIG. 1 ) to which the tag 200 is coupled.

The communication enabled device 204 is configured so that it:communicates (transmits and receives) in accordance with a time slotcommunication scheme; and selectively enables/disables/bypasses thecommunication device (e.g., transceiver) or at least one communicationsoperation based on output of a motion sensor 250. In some scenarios, thecommunication enabled device 204 selects: one or more time slots from aplurality of time slots based on the tag's unique identifier 224 (e.g.,an Electronic Product Code (“EPC”)); and/or determines a Window Of Time(“WOT”) during which the communication device (e.g., transceiver) 206 isto be turned on or at least one communications operation is be enabledsubsequent to when motion is detected by the motion sensor 250. The WOTcan be determined based on environmental conditions (e.g., humidity,temperature, time of day, relative distance to a location device (e.g.,beacon or location tag), etc.) and/or system conditions (e.g., amount oftraffic, interference occurrences, etc.). In this regard, the tag 200can include additional sensors not shown in FIG. 2 .

The communication enabled device 204 also facilitates the automatic anddynamic modification of item level information 226 that is being or isto be output from the tag 200 in response to certain trigger events. Thetrigger events can include, but are not limited to, the tag's arrival ata particular facility (e.g., RSF 128 of FIG. 1 ), the tag's arrival in aparticular country or geographic region, a date occurrence, a timeoccurrence, a price change, and/or the reception of user instructions.

Item level information 226 and a unique identifier (“ID”) 224 for thetag 200 can be stored in memory 208 of the communication enabled device204 and/or communicated to other external devices (e.g., tag reader 120of FIG. 1 , beacon 146 of FIG. 1 , MCD 130 of FIG. 1 , and/or server 124of FIG. 1 ) via communication device (e.g., transceiver) 206 and/orinterface 240 (e.g., an Internet Protocol or cellular networkinterface). For example, the communication enabled de-vice 204 cancommunicate information specifying a timestamp, a unique identifier foran item, item description, item price, a currency symbol and/or locationinformation to an external device. The external device (e.g., server orMCD) can then store the information in a database (e.g., database 126 ofFIG. 1 ) and/or use the information for various purposes.

The communication enabled device 204 also comprises a controller 210(e.g., a CPU) and in-put/output devices 212. The controller 210 canexecute instructions 222 implementing methods for facilitating inventorycounts and management. In this regard, the controller 210 includes aprocessor (or logic circuitry that responds to instructions) and thememory 208 includes a computer-readable storage medium on which isstored one or more sets of instructions 222 (e.g., software code)configured to implement one or more of the methodologies, procedures, orfunctions described herein. The instructions 222 can also reside,completely or at least partially, with-in the controller 210 duringexecution thereof by the tag 200. The memory 208 and the controller 210also can constitute machine-readable media. The term “machine-readablemedia,” as used here, refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g.,a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches andservers) that store the one or more sets of instructions 222. The term“machine-readable media,” as used here, also refers to any medium thatis capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions 222for execution by the tag 200 and that cause the tag 200 to perform anyone or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure.

The input/output devices can include, but are not limited to, a display(e.g., an E Ink display, an LCD display and/or an active matrixdisplay), a speaker, a keypad, and/or light emitting diodes. The displayis used to present item level information in a textual format and/orgraphical format. Similarly, the speaker may be used to output itemlevel information in an auditory format. The speaker and/or lightemitting diodes may be used to output alerts for drawing a person'sattention to the tag 200 (e.g., when motion thereof has been detected)and/or for notifying the person of a particular pricing status (e.g., onsale status) of the item to which the tag is coupled.

The clock/timer 214 is configured to determine a date, a time, and/or anexpiration of a pre-defined period of time. Technique for determiningthese listed items are well known in the art, and therefore will not bedescribed herein. Any known or to be known technique for determiningthese listed items can be used herein without limitation.

The tag 200 also comprises an optional location module 230. The locationmodule 230 is generally configured to determine the geographic locationof the tag at any given time. For example, in some scenarios, thelocation module 230 employs Global Positioning System (“GPS”) technologyand/or Internet based local time acquisition technology. The presentsolution is not limited to the particulars of this example. Any known orto be known technique for determining a geographic lo-cation can be usedherein without limitation including relative positioning within afacility or structure.

The optional coupler 242 is provided to securely or removably couple thetag 200 to an item (e.g., object 110 or 112 of FIG. 1 ). The coupler 242includes, but is not limited to, a mechanical coupling means (e.g., astrap, clip, clamp, snap) and/or adhesive (e.g., glue or sticker). Thecoupler 242 is optional since the coupling can be achieved via a weldand/or chemical bond.

The tag 200 can also include a power source 236, an optional ElectronicArticle Surveillance (“EAS”) component 244, and/or apassive/active/semi-passive RFID component 246. Each of the listedcomponents 236, 244, 246 is well known in the art, and therefore willnot be described herein. Any known or to be known battery, EAS componentand/or RFID component can be used herein without limitation. The powersource 236 can include, but is not limited to, a rechargeable batteryand/or a capacitor.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the tag 200 further comprises an energy harvestingcircuit 232 and a power management circuit 234 for ensuring continuousoperation of the tag 200 without the need to change the rechargeablepower source (e.g., a battery). In some scenarios, the energy harvestingcircuit 232 is configured to harvest energy from one or more sources(e.g., heat, light, vibration, magnetic field, and/or RF energy) and togenerate a relatively low amount of output power from the harvestedenergy. By employing multiple sources for harvesting, the device cancontinue to charge despite the depletion of a source of energy. Energyharvesting circuits are well known in the art, and therefore will not bedescribed herein. Any known or to be known energy harvesting circuit canbe used herein without limitation.

As noted above, the tag 200 may also include a motion sensor 250. Motionsensors are well known in the art, and therefore will not be describedherein. Any known or to be known motion sensor can be used hereinwithout limitation. For example, the motion sensor 250 includes, but isnot limited to, a vibration sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, alinear motion sensor, a Passive Infrared (“PIR”) sensor, a tilt sensor,and/or a rotation sensor.

The motion sensor 250 is communicatively coupled to the controller 210such that it can notify the controller 210 when tag motion is detected.The motion sensor 250 also communicates sensor data to the controller210. The sensor data is processed by the controller 210 to determinewhether or not the motion is of a type for triggering enablement of thecommunication device (e.g., transceiver) 206 or at least onecommunications operation. For example, the sensor data can be comparedto stored motion/gesture data 228 to determine if a match existsthere-between. More specifically, a motion/gesture pattern specified bythe sensor data can be compared to a plurality of motion/gesturepatterns specified by the stored motion/gesture data 228. The pluralityof motion/gesture patterns can include, but are not limited to, a motionpattern for walking, a motion pattern for running, a motion pattern forvehicle transport, a motion pattern for vibration caused by equipment ormachinery in proximity to the tag (e.g., an air conditioner or fan), agesture for requesting assistance, a gesture for obtaining additionalproduct information, and/or a gesture for product purchase. The type ofmovement (e.g., vibration or being carried) is then determined based onwhich stored motion/gesture data matches the sensor data. This featureof the present solution allows the tag 200 to selectively enable thecommunication device (e.g., transceiver) or at least one communicationsoperation only when the tag's location within a facility is actuallybeing changed (e.g., and not when a fan is causing the tag to simplyvibrate).

In some scenarios, the tag 200 can be also configured to enter a sleepstate in which at least the motion sensor triggering of communicationoperations is disabled. This is desirable, for example, in scenarioswhen the tag 200 is being shipped or transported from a distributor to acustomer. In those or other scenarios, the tag 200 can be furtherconfigured to enter the sleep state in response to its continuousdetection of motion for a given period of time. The tag can betransitioned from its sleep state in response to expiration of a definedtime period, the tag's reception of a control signal from an externaldevice, and/or the tag's detection of no motion for a period of time.

The power management circuit 234 is generally configured to control thesupply of power to components of the tag 200. In the event all of thestorage and harvesting resources deplete to a point where the tag 200 isabout to enter a shutdown/brownout state, the power management circuit234 can cause an alert to be sent from the tag 200 to a remote device(e.g., tag reader 120 or server 124 of FIG. 1 ). In response to thealert, the remote device can inform an associate (e.g., a store employee132 of FIG. 1 ) so that (s) he can investigate why the tag 200 is notrecharging and/or holding charge.

The power management circuit 234 is also capable of redirecting anenergy source to the tag's 200 electronics based on the energy source'sstatus. For example, if harvested energy is sufficient to run the tag's200 function, the power management circuit 234 confirms that all of thetag's 200 storage sources are fully charged such that the tag's 200electronic components can be run directly from the harvested energy.This ensures that the tag 200 always has stored energy in caseharvesting source(s) disappear or lesser energy is harvested for reasonssuch as drop in RF, light or vibration power levels. If a sudden drop inany of the energy sources is detected, the power management circuit 234can cause an alert condition to be sent from the tag 200 to the remotedevice (e.g., tag reader 120 or server 124 of FIG. 1 ). At this point,an investigation may be required as to what caused this alarm.Accordingly, the remote device can inform the associate (e.g., a storeemployee 132 of FIG. 1 ) so that (s) he can investigate the issue. Itmay be that other merchandise are obscuring the harvesting source or theitem is being stolen.

The present solution is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2 . The tag200 can have any architecture provided that it can perform the functionsand operations described herein. For example, all of the componentsshown in FIG. 2 can comprise a single device (e.g., an IntegratedCircuit (“IC”)). Alternatively, some of the components can comprise afirst tag element (e.g., a Commercial Off The Shelf (“COTS”) tag) whilethe remaining components comprise a second tag element communicativelycoupled to the first tag element. The second tag element can provideauxiliary functions (e.g., motion sensing, etc.) to the first tagelement. The second tag element may also control operational states ofthe first tag element. For example, the second tag element canselectively (a) enable and disable one or more features/operations ofthe first tag element (e.g., transceiver operations), (b) couple ordecouple an antenna to and from the first tag element, (c) by-pass atleast one communications device or operation, and/or (d) cause anoperational state of the first tag element to be changed (e.g., causetransitioning the first tag element between a power save mode andnon-power save mode). In some scenarios, the operational state changecan be achieved by changing the binary value of at least one state bit(e.g., from 0 to 1, or vice versa) for causing certain communicationcontrol operations to be performed by the tag 200. Additionally oralternatively, a switch can be actuated for creating a closed or opencircuit. The pre-sent solution is not limited in this regard.

In some examples, tag 200 includes an RFID subsystem, such ascommunication-enabled device 204 described above, operative to receivean RFID interrogation signal and respond with an RFID response. Suchtags 200 include a non-RFID RF subsystem, also incorporated intocommunication enabled device 204, operative to receive a non-RFID RFsignal and respond by wirelessly indicating that the non-RFID subsystemreceived the non-RFID RF signal. In some such examples, the non-RFIDsubsystem responds that the non-RFID RF subsystem received the non-RFIDRF signal by one of: allowing the RFID subsystem to respond to the RFIDinterrogation signal with an RFID response only upon the non-RFID RFsubsystem having received a non-RFID RF signal concurrently;supplementing the RFID response with at least one information elementindicating that the non-RFID RF subsystem received the non-RFID RFsignal; and separately transmitting a non-RFID response. In some suchexamples, the non-RFID RF subsystem is a personal area network (PAN)signal. In some such examples, the PAN is a Bluetooth PAN.

Referring now to FIG. 3 , there is provided a detailed block diagram ofan exemplary architecture for a tag reader 300. Tag reader 120 of FIG. 1is the same as or similar to tag reader 200. As such, the discussion oftag reader 200 is sufficient for understanding tag reader 120.

Tag reader 300 may include more or less components than that shown inFIG. 3 . However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose anillustrative embodiment implementing the present solution. Some or allof the components of the tag reader 300 can be implemented in hardware,software and/or a combination of hardware and software. The hardwareincludes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. Theelectronic circuit may comprise passive components (e.g., capacitors andresistors) and active components (e.g., processors) arranged and/orprogrammed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

The hardware architecture of FIG. 3 represents an illustration of arepresentative tag reader 300 configured to facilitate improvedinventory counts and management within an RSF (e.g., RSF 128 of FIG. 1). In this regard, the tag reader 300 comprises an RF enabled device 350for allowing data to be exchanged with an external device (e.g., RFIDtags 112 ₁, . . . , 112 _(N), 118 ₁, . . . , 118 _(X) of FIG. 1 ) via RFtechnology. The components 304-316 shown in FIG. 3 may be collectivelyreferred to herein as the RF enabled device 350, and may include a powersource 312 (e.g., a battery) or be connected to an external power source(e.g., an AC mains).

The RF enabled device 350 comprises an antenna 302 for allowing data tobe exchanged with the external device via RF technology (e.g., RFIDtechnology or other RF based technology). The external device maycomprise RFID tags 112 ₁, . . . , 112 _(N), 118 ₁, . . . , 118 _(X) ofFIG. 1 . In this case, the antenna 302 is configured to transmit RFcarrier signals (e.g., interrogation signals) to the listed externaldevices, and/or transmit data response signals (e.g., authenticationreply signals or an RFID response signal) generated by the RF enableddevice 350. In this regard, the RF enabled device 350 comprises an RFtransceiver 308. RF transceivers are well known in the art, andtherefore will not be described herein. However, it should be understoodthat the RF transceiver 308 receives RF signals including informationfrom the transmitting device, and forwards the same to a logiccontroller 310 for extracting the information therefrom.

The extracted information can be used to determine the presence,location, and/or type of movement of an RFID tag within a facility(e.g., RSF 128 of FIG. 1 ). Accordingly, the logic controller 310 canstore the extracted information in memory 304, and execute algorithmsusing the extracted information. For example, the logic controller 310can correlate tag reads with beacon reads to determine the location ofthe RFID tags within the facility. The logic controller 310 can alsoperform pattern recognition operations using sensor data received fromRFID tags and comparison operations between recognized patterns andpre-stored patterns. The logic controller 310 can further select a timeslot from a plurality of time slots based on a tag's unique identifier(e.g., an EPC), and communicate information specifying the selected timeslot to the respective RFID tag. The logic controller 310 mayadditionally determine a WOT during which a given RFID tag'scommunication device (e.g., transceiver) or operation(s) is (are) to beturned on when motion is detected thereby, and communicate the same tothe given RFID tag. The WOT can be determined based on environmentalconditions (e.g., temperature, time of day, etc.) and/or systemconditions (e.g., amount of traffic, interference occurrences, etc.).Other operations performed by the logic controller 310 will be apparentfrom the following discussion.

Notably, memory 304 may be a volatile memory and/or a non-volatilememory. For example, the memory 304 can include, but is not limited to,a RAM, a DRAM, an SRAM, a ROM, and a flash memory. The memory 304 mayalso comprise unsecure memory and/or secure memory. The phrase “unsecurememory,” as used herein, refers to memory configured to store data in aplain text form. The phrase “secure memory,” as used herein, refers tomemory configured to store data in an encrypted form and/or memoryhaving or being disposed in a secure or tamper-proof enclosure.

Instructions 322 are stored in memory for execution by the RF enableddevice 350 and that cause the RF enabled device 350 to perform any oneor more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The instructions322 are generally operative to facilitate determinations as to whetheror not RFID tags are present within a facility, where the RFID tags arelocated within a facility, which RFID tags are in motion at any giventime, and which RFID tags are also in zone of a second RF signal (e.g.,a Bluetooth beacon or NFC or other SRC system). Other functions of theRF enabled device 350 will become apparent as the discussion progresses.

Referring now to FIG. 4 , there is provided a detailed block diagram ofan exemplary architecture for a server 400. Server 124 of FIG. 1 is thesame as or substantially similar to server 400. As such, the followingdiscussion of server 400 is sufficient for understanding server 124.

Notably, the server 400 may include more or less components than thoseshown in FIG. 4 . However, the components shown are sufficient todisclose an illustrative embodiment implementing the present solution.The hardware architecture of FIG. 4 represents one embodiment of arepresentative server configured to facilitate inventory counts,inventory management, and improved customer experiences. As such, theserver 400 of FIG. 4 implements at least a portion of some methods forEAS, in which an EAS system 100 determines, based on receiving both atleast one RFID response signal from a first RFID tag of the EAS systemresponding to an RFID interrogation signal and an indication that thefirst RFID tag received a second non-RFID RF transmission, that thefirst RFID tag is in a zone of interest.

Some or all the components of the server 400 can be implemented ashardware, software and/or a combination of hardware and software. Thehardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electroniccircuits. The electronic circuits can include, but are not limited to,passive components (e.g., resistors and capacitors) and/or activecomponents (e.g., amplifiers and/or microprocessors). The passive and/oractive components can be adapted to, arranged to, and/or programmed toperform one or more of the methodologies, procedures, or functionsdescribed herein.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the server 400 comprises a user interface 402, aCPU 406, a system bus 410, a memory 412 connected to and accessible byother portions of server 400 through system bus 410, and hardwareentities 414 connected to system bus 410. The user interface can includeinput devices (e.g., a keypad 450) and output devices (e.g., speaker452, a display 454, and/or light emitting diodes 456), which facilitateuser-software interactions for controlling operations of the server 400.

At least some of the hardware entities 414 perform actions involvingaccess to and use of memory 412, which can be a RAM, a disk driver,and/or a Compact Disc Read Only Memory (“CD-ROM”). Hardware entities 414can include a disk drive unit 416 comprising a computer-readable storagemedium 418 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions 420(e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of themethodologies, procedures, or functions described herein. Theinstructions 420 can also reside, completely or at least partially,with-in the memory 412 and/or within the CPU 406 during executionthereof by the server 400. The memory 412 and the CPU 406 also canconstitute machine-readable media. The term “machine-readable media,” asused here, refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., acentralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches andservers) that store the one or more sets of instructions 420. The term“machine-readable media,” as used here, also refers to any medium thatis capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions 420for execution by the server 400 and that cause the server 400 to performany one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure.

In some scenarios, the hardware entities 414 include an electroniccircuit (e.g., a processor) programmed for facilitating the provision ofa three-dimensional map showing locations of RFID tags within a facilityand/or changes to said locations in near real-time. In this regard, itshould be understood that the electronic circuit can access and run asoftware application 422 installed on the server 400. The softwareapplication 422 is generally operative to facilitate the determinationof RFID tag locations within a facility; the direction of travel of RFIDtags in motion; and the mapping of the RFID tag locations and movementsin a virtual three-dimensional space.

In those or other scenarios, the hardware entities 414 include anelectronic circuit (e.g., a processor) programmed for facilitating iteminventorying, merchandise sale, and/or customer satisfaction with ashopping experience. In this regard, the electronic circuit can accessand run an inventorying software application 422 and an MCD displaysoftware application 422 installed on the server 400. The softwareapplications 422 are collectively generally operative to: obtain itemlevel information and/or other information from MCDs and RFID tags;program item level information, accessory information, related productinformation and/or discount information onto RFID tags and/or MCDs;convert the language, pricing and/or currency symbol of item levelinformation, accessory information, related product information and/ordiscount information; facilitate registration of RFID tags and MCDs withan enterprise system; and/or determine when MCD display update actionsneed to be taken based on RFID tag information. Other functions of thesoftware applications 422 will become apparent as the discussionprogresses. Such other functions can relate to tag reader control and/ortag control.

Referring to FIG. 5 , FIG. 6 , and FIG. 8 , in operation, system 100 mayperform a method 500 of electronic article surveillance, by such as viaexecution of application component 815 by processor 805 and/or memory810—wherein application component 815, processor 805, and/or memory 810are components of computing device 800. Computing device 800 can be oneor more of tag 200, tag reader 300, and server 400.

An EAS system can first transmit, over a first window of time, an RFIDinterrogation signal into an RFID interrogation zone of an EASsystem—Block 510. In a continuing example, EAS system 600 (for examplesystem 100) includes RFID tag reader 300 (for example tag reader 120)that transmits an RFID interrogation signal into interrogation zone 399in facility 610 (for example retail store facility 128) coveringsubstantially the front one third of the facility 610 includingentry/exit 612. This positions RFID tag reader 300 such that anyoperative tag of the system present in the interrogation zone 399 duringtransmission of the interrogation signal will respond per the system 600protocol.

In a further example, referring to FIG. 8 , computer device 800,processor 805, memory 810, application component 815, and/or firsttransmitting component 820 may be configured to or may comprise meansfor first transmitting, over a first window of time, an RFIDinterrogation signal into an RFID interrogation zone of an EAS system.

The EAS system can first receive at least one RFID response signal froma first RFID tag of the EAS system responding to the interrogationsignal—Block 520. In the continuing example, any tag 200 (such as tag200 a) attached to a retail store product that is leaving the retailfacility 610 is detected through the RFID interrogation zone—but so willtag 200 b (which is attached to a retail store product on display andnot leaving the retail facility 610). The RFID response signal from tag200 a, as it is leaving the store, varies in signal strength; while thestrength of the RFID response signal from tag 200 b stays fairlyconstant.

In some examples, the RFID response itself contains a received signalstrength indicator (RSSI) information element describing the strength ofthe RFID interrogation signal as that signal is received from the RFIDtag reader 300. The RSSI information (both for the RFID signal and fornon-RFID signals) can be used, as described below, in determiningwhether a tag 200 a is in the zone of interest. In some examples, thedetecting further comprises detecting that the tag is not authorized tobe in the RFID interrogation zone. For example, only tags that are notauthorized to be in the RFID interrogation zone are considered. In suchexamples, response signals from tags that are authorized, for example bycompletion of a purchase transaction of the article to which the tag isattached, will be ignored after being detected.

In the further example of FIG. 8 , computer device 800, processor 805,memory 810, application component 815, and/or first receiving component825 may be configured to or may comprise means for first receiving atleast one RFID response signal from a first RFID tag of the EAS systemresponding to the interrogation signal.

Over a second window of time overlapping at least in part with the firstwindow of time, the EAS system transmits a non-RFID RF signal into asecond zone, the second zone and the RFID interrogation zone overlappingto form a zone of interest—Block 530. In the continuing example, abeacon 146 such as Bluetooth LE beacon 650 of the EAS system 600broadcasts (into the second zone 699) its universally unique identifier(and possibly several bytes) to be picked up by an EAS system 600 tag200 (that includes at least a Bluetooth LE receiver, e.g., as part ofcommunication enabled device 204). The RFID interrogation zone 399 andsecond zone 699 overlap across entry/exit 612 to form zone of interest680. In some examples, the capturing is in response to the detecting.

In the further example of FIG. 8 , computer device 800, processor 805,memory 810, application component 815, and/or second transmittingcomponent 830 may be configured to or may comprise means for secondtransmitting, over a second window of time overlapping at least in partwith the first window of time, a non-RFID RF signal into a second zone,the second zone and the RFID interrogation zone overlapping to form azone of interest.

The EAS system second receives, from the first RFID tag, an indicationthat the first RFID tag received the second transmission—Block 540. Inthe continuing example, tag 200 a in the zone of interest 680 hadreceived both the first transmission and the second transmission. Aspart of the RFID response from tag 200 a, tag 200 a included theuniversal unique identifier of beacon 650 along with an RSSI for thereceived second transmission. In other examples, reception of the secondtransmission operates as a gating function in tag 200 a to allow theRFID response to be sent—thus a tag reader 300 receiving the RFIDresponse knows that the tag 200 a was in the zone of interest 680; whilethe RFID response of tag 200 b, outside the zone of interest, does notinclude the identifier of beacon 650. In other examples, tag 200includes a separate non-RFID RF transmitter, but such examples aresuboptimal and lose some of the advantage of other examples.

In the further example of FIG. 8 , computer device 800, processor 805,memory 810, application component 815, and/or second receiving component835 may be configured to or may comprise means for receiving, from thefirst RFID tag, an indication that the first RFID tag received thesecond transmission.

The EAS system can determine based on receiving both the at least oneRFID response signal from a first RFID tag of the EAS system respondingto the interrogation signal and the indication that the first RFID tagreceived the second transmission, that the first RFID tag is in the zoneof interest—Block 550. In the continuing example, the server 400receives the RFID response including the beacon 650 universal uniqueidentifier and the RSSI of the second transmission at tag 200 a, anddetermined that tag 200 a was in the zone of interest 680. In someexamples, where the RSSI is below a threshold value, server 400 does notconsider that the tag 200 was in the zone of interest 680.

In the further example of FIG. 8 , computer device 800, processor 805,memory 810, application component 815, and/or determining component 840may be configured to or may comprise means for determine based onreceiving both the at least one RFID response signal from a first RFIDtag of the EAS system responding to the interrogation signal and theindication that the first RFID tag received the second transmission,that the first RFID tag is in the zone of interest.

Referring to FIG. 6 , FIG. 7 , and FIG. 8 , in some examples of thetechnology disclosed herein, the EAS system alarming in response todetermining that the first RFID tag is in the zone of interest—Block660. In such examples, Block 510—Block 550 are performed as describedabove. In the continuing example, the RFID tag response including theindication of the beacon 650 universal unique identifier and the RSSI ofthe second transmission at tag 200 a cause the EAS system to alarm. Insome embodiments, the EAS system interfaces with a point of sale system(not shown) of the facility 610 to determine whether a product to whichtag 200 a was attached has been purchased or otherwise authorized toleave the facility. If not, then the determination that tag 200 a was inthe zone of interest 680 results in an alarm.

In the further example of FIG. 8 , computer device 800, processor 805,memory 810, application component 815, and/or alarming component 845 maybe configured, or may comprise means for, alarming in response todetermining that the first RFID tag is in the zone of interest.

Some examples of the technology disclosed herein include an electronicarticle surveillance (EAS) system using a Bluetooth beacon at the exitpoint to validate the position of the RFID tag after the RFID causes anEAS event at the portal. This advantageously reduces false alarms, andat the same time allows for reduced transmission powers.

In some examples, the technology includes an EAS tag having a passiveRFID element is disposed in the tag housing. The passive RFID element isresponsive to an RFID interrogation field applied at the EAS portal, andis operable to generate an encoded RF signal, which is interpreted as anEAS response in the event of unauthorized passage through the portal.

In some examples, the technology further includes one or more SRCbeacons positioned at exit points proximate the EAS portal. The one ormore SRC beacons are installed at fixed, known positions. Onceinitiated, the SRC beacon system is configured to continuously generateat predetermined intervals a radio beacon transmission compliant with ashort range wireless communication standard (e.g. a Bluetooth datacommunication standard). The continuously generated beacon transmissionis initiated in response to a beacon enable signal. At least onewireless transmission is used to initiate the beacon enable signal. Theradio beacon transmission described herein includes a unique identifierused assigned to each of the one or more beacons, where the identifiercan server to associate the beacon with its fixed, known position.

In some examples, the beacon enablement signal can be transmitted by awireless communication module disposed in the EAS tag. The wirelesstechnology can include, but is not limited to, Short Range Communication(“SRC”) technology and RFID technology. The SRC technology includes, butis not limited to, Bluetooth technology, and more particularly caninclude Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. Bluetooth is a standarddata communications protocol designed for low-power consumption, with ashort range (e.g., less than 100 meters) based on low-cost transceivermicrochips. BLE extends the use of Bluetooth wireless technology so asto consume much less power as compared to radios that conform to a basicBluetooth standard. BLE practically facilitates the use of Bluetoothwireless technology in devices powered by small, coin-cell batteries.

In some examples, when an RFID portal associated with a retail storedetects that an EAS tag is departing from the retail store withoutauthorization, the system can respond by automatically activating theSRC beacon. In one embodiment, this can be accomplished by setting asession flag in the RFID element. The session flag can then be used as abeacon enable signal sent from the tag to activate SRC beacontransmissions from the one or more SRC beacons.

Alternatively, the beacon activation signal can be transmitted from thecomponents installed within the EAS portal, or from one or moretransmission nodes in communication with the EAS portal. Once the beaconenable signal is transmitted, the one or more SRC beacons commencesignal transmission. If there are multiple SRC beacons, each signal caninclude the unique identifier indicating a particular SRC beacon'sposition. The Bluetooth Beacon Gateway receives the beacon signal, andthe position information is compared to the RFID response.

By logically “ANDing” the RFID response with a Bluetooth signal, theposition of the sensor can be determined. A beacon would be placed atthe exit of the store. Only when both the BT and RFID signal thresholdswere achieved, would the exit alarm sound.

In some examples, an EAS system includes an EAS portal at the exit pointof a protected area and an EAS tag. The EAS tag includes a tag housing,an RFID element disposed in the tag housing, and which is responsive toan RFID interrogation field applied at the EAS portal to generate anencoded RF signal indicating a first EAS event if the movement of thetag through the portal is unauthorized. The system further includes ashort range communication (SRC) beacon system including one or more SRCbeacons fixedly installed near the exit point for generates an SRC radiobeacon transmission in response to a beacon enable signal generated inresponse to the first EAS event associated with the EAS tag. In suchexamples, the SRC radio beacon transmission is received by a radioreceiver in communication with the EAS portal, the reception of thebeacon transmission indicating that the tag is in proximity of the exit,the EAS portal interpreting the beacon transmission as a second EASevent associated with the EAS tag. In such examples, the EAS portalgenerates an EAS alarm event only if the first EAS event and the secondEAS event are generated within a predefined time interval. In some suchexamples, the EAS system is arranged to generate at least one wirelesstransmission that initiates the beacon enable signal in response to theEAS alarm event.

The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the various aspects described herein. Variousmodifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilledin the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied toother aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to theaspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistentwith the language claims, wherein reference to an element in thesingular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specificallyso stated, but rather “one or more.” The word “exemplary” is used hereinto mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any aspectdescribed herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed aspreferred or advantageous over other aspects. Unless specifically statedotherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Combinations such as“at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” “at least oneof A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” and “A, B, C, or anycombination thereof” include any combination of A, B, and/or C, and mayinclude multiples of A, multiples of B, or multiples of C. Specifically,combinations such as “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B,or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” and“A, B, C, or any combination thereof” may be A only, B only, C only, Aand B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, where any such combinationsmay contain one or more member or members of A, B, or C. All structuraland functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspectsdescribed throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to beknown to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporatedherein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims.

Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to thepublic regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited inthe claims. The words “module,” “mechanism,” “element,” “device,” andthe like may not be a substitute for the word “means.” As such, no claimelement is to be construed as a means plus function unless the elementis expressly recited using the phrase “means for.”

What is claimed is:
 1. A electronic article surveillance (EAS) system,comprising: an EAS tag reader operative to: first transmit, over a firstwindow of time, a radio frequency identification (RFID) interrogationsignal into an RFID interrogation zone of an EAS system, first receiveat least one RFID response signal from a first EAS tag of the EAS systemresponding to the interrogation signal; second transmit, over a secondwindow of time overlapping at least in part with the first window oftime, a non-RFID RF signal into a second zone, the second zone and theRFID interrogation zone overlapping to form a zone of interest; andsecond receive, from the first EAS tag, an indication that the first EAStag received the second transmission; and at least one processor: incommunication with the EAS tag reader; and operative to: determine,based on receiving both the at least one RFID response signal from afirst RFID tag of the EAS system responding to the interrogation signaland the indication that the first RFID tag received the secondtransmission, that the first RFID tag is in the zone of interest.
 2. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the second transmitting is in response to thefirst receiving.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein: the first receivingfurther comprises determining that the first RFID tag is not authorizedto be in the RFID interrogation zone; and the second transmitting occursonly in response to determining that the first RFID tag is notauthorized to be in the RFID interrogation zone.
 4. The system of claim3, further comprising, alarming in response to determining that thefirst RFID tag is in the zone of interest.
 5. The system of claim 1,wherein the non-RFID RF signal is a personal area network (PAN) signal.6. The system of claim 5, wherein the PAN is a Bluetooth PAN.
 7. Thesystem of claim 5, wherein determining is further based on a receivedsignal strength indicator (RSSI) of the first tag.
 8. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the indication that the first RFID tag received thesecond transmission comprises one of: an information element in the RFIDresponse signal, and a received non-RFID response signal from the firsttag in response to the non-RFID RF signal.
 9. A method of electronicarticle surveillance (EAS), comprising: first transmitting, over a firstwindow of time, a radio frequency identification (RFID) interrogationsignal into an RFID interrogation zone of an EAS system, first receivingat least one RFID response signal from a first RFID tag of the EASsystem responding to the interrogation signal; second transmitting, overa second window of time overlapping at least in part with the firstwindow of time, a non-RFID RF signal into a second zone, the second zoneand the RFID interrogation zone overlapping to form a zone of interest;second receiving, from the first RFID tag, an indication that the firstRFID tag received the second transmission; and determining, based onreceiving both the at least one RFID response signal from a first RFIDtag of the EAS system responding to the interrogation signal and theindication that the first RFID tag received the second transmission,that the first RFID tag is in the zone of interest.
 10. The method ofclaim 9, wherein the second transmitting is in response to the firstreceiving.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein: the first receivingfurther comprises determining that the first RFID tag is not authorizedto be in the RFID interrogation zone; and the second transmitting occursonly in response to determining that the first RFID tag is notauthorized to be in the RFID interrogation zone.
 12. The method of claim11, further comprising, alarming in response to determining that thefirst RFID tag is in the zone of interest.
 13. The method of claim 9,wherein the non-RFID RF signal is a personal area network (PAN) signal.14. The method of claim 13, wherein the PAN is a Bluetooth PAN.
 15. Themethod of claim 13, wherein determining is further based on a receivedsignal strength indicator (RSSI) of the first tag.
 16. The method ofclaim 9, wherein the indication that the first RFID tag received thesecond transmission comprises one of: an information element in the RFIDresponse signal, and a received non-RFID response signal from the firsttag in response to the non-RFID RF signal.
 17. An electronic articlesurveillance (EAS) tag, comprising: an RFID subsystem operative toreceive an RFID interrogation signal and respond with an RFID response;and a non-RFID RF subsystem, operative to receive a non-RFID RF signaland respond by wirelessly indicating that the non-RFID subsystemreceived the non-RFID RF signal, wherein the non-RFID subsystem respondsthat the non-RFID RF subsystem received the non-RFID RF signal by oneof: allowing the RFID subsystem to respond to the RFID interrogationsignal with an RFID response only upon the non-RFID RF subsystem havingreceived a non-RFID RF signal concurrently; supplementing the RFIDresponse with at least one information element indicating that thenon-RFID RF subsystem received the non-RFID RF signal; and separatelytransmitting a non-RFID response.
 18. The EAS tag of claim 17, whereinthe non-RFID RF subsystem is a personal area network (PAN) signal.